Russian authorities have charged Telegram founder Pavel Durov with aiding terrorism, deepening the long-running conflict between Moscow and the messaging platform. According to the brief report, the FSB says the case was filed under Article 205.1 of Russia's criminal code and that Durov has been placed on an international wanted list.
The allegation centers on Telegram's handling of content. Russian officials claim the platform failed to remove channels they say were linked to organizing attacks, turning a moderation dispute into a criminal case aimed at the company's most prominent figure.
The move adds to Russia's broader pressure campaign on digital platforms, especially services that have resisted tighter state control. Durov has previously pushed back on the case, portraying it as an example of a government reacting fearfully to its own citizens rather than addressing the underlying issues.
With the new charge, the standoff between Russia and Telegram appears to be escalating again. The case is likely to draw renewed attention to how governments try to hold platform leaders responsible for user activity, particularly when accusations involve national security and terrorism.
